Russian Orthodox schools

Vadim Sorokin visits a school in Kostrovo on Slavic Alphabet Day. The Russian Constitution requires the separation of church and state, but school officials say classes on Orthodox culture are needed to unite immigrant children of different nationalities and faiths.

Vadim Sorokin visits a school in Kostrovo on Slavic Alphabet Day. The Russian Constitution requires the separation of church and state, but school officials say classes on Orthodox culture are needed to unite immigrant children of different nationalities and faiths. (Sergei L. Loiko / Los Angeles Times)

Vadim Sorokin visits a school in Kostrovo on Slavic Alphabet Day. The Russian Constitution requires the separation of church and state, but school officials say classes on Orthodox culture are needed to unite immigrant children of different nationalities and faiths.